CH - 248 Jiraiya: When did I say that?!

The next morning, Jiraiya woke up with a pounding headache, likely the aftermath of a heavy night of drinking. He groaned and rubbed his temples, feeling disoriented as he sat up in bed.

After a good fifteen minutes, he finally began to regain his senses. Blinking rapidly, he surveyed the room before him, piecing together the events of the previous night. A curse word slipped out of his mouth involuntarily, "Damn!"

Reflecting on the evening's events, he realized it was best not to dwell on them. It had all been a sham. Mubuki's supposed hospitality had turned out to be nothing more than a deception. The grand "Grass Banquet" was merely a visit to a bathhouse, and to make matters worse, the other bathers were far from the 'gentle' company he had expected.

However, amidst the deception, Jiraiya couldn't deny that the bath had been rather invigorating. Despite the rough company, the experienced individuals provided an excellent scrub-down, leaving him feeling rejuvenated. But ultimately, he had come away empty-handed, his expectations unfulfilled.

Reflecting on that interview, Jiraiya massaged his temples with a slight headache, muttering, "It should be fine." He had been cautious with his words, praising Konoha while also acknowledging its flaws. Similarly, he subtly highlighted the alliance with the Grass Village, delicately indicating areas of improvement for both villages and hinting at Konoha's discontent with certain moral aspects of the Grass Ninjas.

Upon reconsideration, it appeared that his remarks shouldn't pose a significant issue. At least, that was what he hoped. With a reassuring exhale, Jiraiya glanced at the clock on the wall. There were still tasks awaiting his attention.

He needed to handle Danzo's redemption discreetly while gathering information on the Uchiha clan and the Jinchuriki. Additionally, he had to convey Konoha's justified frustration and disapproval. Naturally, all of this had to be executed with utmost care. After all, the village desired peace above all else.

Speaking of Which, Remembering the recent headline in the Shinobi Times, Jiraiya couldn't help but feel a twinge of skepticism himself about whether Konoha was truly cursed, even as closely involved in that. After all, The notion was simply too ominous to dismiss outright.

After a lazy stretch, just as he was about to venture out to investigate, a series of knocks interrupted him. "Knock knock knock~" The sound echoed through the room, accompanied by a voice from outside, "Dear distinguished VIP customer, your breakfast has been delivered. Would you like it brought in now, or shall we leave it at the door for you?"

"Leave it at the door!" Jiraiya replied casually before quickly tidying up his appearance. As the esteemed Toad Sage of the ninja world, maintaining a certain image was paramount.

This particular room was part of the 'Grass Banquet'. Left here after a night of revelry with Mubuki, he found the accommodations surprisingly comfortable. Despite his preferences, the lavish decoration was quite pleasing.

Picking up the breakfast left outside, Jiraiya intended to enjoy it before venturing out to observe the changes in the Grass Village. However, his attention was soon drawn to a copy of the Shinobi Times resting nearby.

His eyes widened as he recalled yesterday's interview, his eyelids twitching with apprehension as he hastily retrieved the paper. Yet, as he read the report, silence enveloped him. Had he truly uttered those words yesterday? When did he say that? "Wha..!"

…

Having finished his breakfast, Akihiko glanced at the newspaper in his hand. The byline revealed that the article was penned by the esteemed Shinobi Times journalist, White Zetsu, known for his distinctive style. The title, crafted in his signature manner, caught Akihiko's attention:

"Grass Village's Close Friend Jiraiya, stands Firm Against Attempts to Strain Konoha-Grass Relations!"

The article delved into the longstanding friendship between Konoha and the Grass Village, tracing its roots back to the tumultuous Warring States period. It portrayed Jiraiya's disappointment with Konoha and his impassioned plea against their perceived mistreatment of the Grass Village.

However, it tactfully avoided outright suggesting that Konoha had severed ties with the Grass Village, maintaining a poignant yet restrained narrative that resonated deeply. Kushina, seated beside him, couldn't suppress a strange laugh at the article's tone.

It appeared that the ace reporter was inching closer to the coveted position of deputy editor-in-chief/Vice President. Akihiko couldn't help but marvel at the dedication of this particular White Zetsu clone, contrasting it with the laziness of the original.

After perusing the article, Akihiko folded the newspaper and relished the warmth of the morning sun. Although, it seems that such pleasant sunlight might not linger for long, noting the morning's chill.

In the coming days, the possibility of snowfall lingered in the air. And amidst this seasonal shift, it was nearly time for Obito to graduate, marking the beginning of Naruto and Sasuke's educational journey. As the budding talents of the Grass Village, they warranted careful nurturing.

Yet, there was a noticeable change in Naruto's demeanor. Akihiko regarded him with concern, observing a subtle shift from his usual cheerfulness. With a gentle pat on Naruto's head, he inquired, "What's troubling you?"

Naruto's response was tinged with a hint of melancholy. "Nothing~" he murmured before falling into a thoughtful silence.

Before Akihiko, the 'kind and friendly' Uncle, could inquire further, Naruto spoke up again. "Uncle Akihiko, why do they still want me back even though the Third Grandpa and the others... don't like me much?"

Akihiko was momentarily taken aback, realizing the source of Naruto's unease. It seemed that Naruto had gleaned insights from their conversation the previous night. Considering their age, such contemplations were not unexpected. After all, they were no longer toddlers but five-year-old youngsters, on the cusp of entering school, capable of grappling with complex concepts.

Considering that a certain child in Konoha had begun contemplating world peace at the tender age of four, started having the mindset of a Hokage at five, and demonstrated a sense of 'noble sacrifice' by thirteen, Naruto's introspection seemed fitting for his age.

It seems that the lack of assignments had led his young mind to wander into strange thoughts. Otherwise, where would he have time for such random thoughts?

With a tender smile, Akihiko gently patted Naruto's head and asked, "Would you like to stay?"

"Of course!" Naruto responded promptly, his eyes shining with conviction. "Here, I have Mom, Uncle Akihiko. I have Karin. I have Aunt Kana. I have Aunt Fuso, and everyone. No one dislikes me here."

Akihiko nodded in understanding. "That's reassuring to hear. As long as you wish to remain."

"But Konoha..." Naruto's thoughts drifted back to his mother's distress the previous day. "I feel like I've caused trouble for everyone."

Akihiko's smile remained warm as he tousled Naruto's hair. "Why fret over matters beyond your control? That's something for adults to handle."

"But..." Naruto hesitated, still burdened by the worry of burdening others.

"But what? Do you want to stay?" Akihiko pressed gently, his tone unwavering despite Naruto's troubled expression.

"Yes!" Naruto affirmed without hesitation, his intention clear.

"Then, that's settled, Naruto." Akihiko nodded with a sense of contentment and ruffled Naruto's hair affectionately. "Go play now. There might not be as much time for it in the days ahead. Your mom and I will handle whatever comes next. You're not going anywhere."

"...Okay." Naruto's smile returned at Akihiko's reassurance. "Thank you, Uncle Akihiko. I'll make sure to repay you in the future."

Akihiko arched an eyebrow, subtly nudging Naruto towards a more focused path. "Is that so? Well then, focus on your studies. That's the best way to repay me."

"Rest assured, Uncle Akihiko. I, Uzumaki Naruto, will study hard." Naruto clenched his fist with determination. "Keeping promises is my ninja way!"

Akihiko patted Naruto's head once more, his smile reflecting pride. "You're a good kid, Naruto."

…

On the other side, As Kushina observed the heartwarming interaction between Akihiko and Naruto, a sense of relief washed over her, reflecting in the smile that graced her lips. Seeing Naruto's smile restored filled her with a profound sense of reassurance.

With a sense of gratitude, she turned her gaze towards Akihiko, recognizing his compassionate gesture towards Naruto. As a mother, she hadn't even realized that her son harbored such concerns. It dawned on her that Naruto was perhaps more perceptive of others' feelings than she had previously thought.

However, a surge of anger tinged with bitterness welled up within her as she recalled the reason behind Naruto's sensitivity. She clenched her fists in frustration, squinting slightly as resentment simmered beneath the surface. "Konoha... Jiraiya..."

Just then, as Akihiko continued to reassure Naruto and encourage him to enjoy his time before school began, a Grass Village ninja burst into the room. "Leader, Jiraiya from Konoha requests an audience!"

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